1996 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Ford Escort
To start off, 2005 Ford Escort is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2005 Ford Escort. (128 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 340 kg more than 2005 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Escort, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Escort. (170 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2005 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
